What are the "pros and cons" of the Apple Silicon iMac? Is it for me?

To help you determine whether or not one of the Apple Silicon iMac models is the best Mac for you, an objective, quick-to-read "pros and cons" can be ideal.

This Q&A addresses both the original iMac "M1" 8 CPU/7 GPU/2 USB-C Shaped Ports (2021) and iMac "M1" 8 CPU/8 GPU/4 USB-C Shaped Ports (2021) for those considering one on the used market as well as the current models -- the iMac "M3" 8 CPU/8 GPU/2 Ports 24" (2023) and iMac "M3" 8 CPU/10 GPU/4 Ports 24" (2023) -- for someone considering a new one.

Photo Credit: Apple, Inc. (Apple Silicon iMac - Green)

For those interested in more detail, EveryMac.com also offers an in-depth comparison of the original "2021 M1" iMac models and the current "2023 M3" iMac models.

For those who like a quick "run down," the following can be everything you need to decide:

Pros:

• Thin, sleek, and colorful design.
• Quite fast for the price.
• Attractive, high-quality 4.5K internal display and support for a second display as large as 6K.
• Thunderbolt / USB 4 ports for fast external connectivity.
• Good quality 1080p FaceTime HD camera, three-mic array, and six-speaker system for video conferencing.
• Not a bad value for a computer with a quality integrated display.

Cons:

• Yellow, orange, and purple colors only are available on more expensive configurations.
• Light gray bezel around the display is arguably unattractive.
• Two Thunderbolt ports limits fast external connectivity.
• Essentially disposable; non-upgradable processor, GPU, RAM, and storage will limit the useful life of the computer.
• No eGPU support.
• No SD card slot.
• No default VESA mount capability.
• Lack of Ethernet on the entry-level model is a particularly miserly omission.
• More expensive than plenty of Windows PCs.

So, is an Apple Silicon iMac right for me?

Basically, if you want a fun and colorful new Apple all-in-one, have no need for internal expansion, are not on a tight budget, and are not concerned about the environmental aspect of an essentially disposable computer, an Apple Silicon iMac would be ideal for you. It essentially is your only new Mac option.

Naturally, the Apple Silicon iMac costs less on the used market and earlier models might be preferable to those who want a modern all-in-one Mac and who would like to save a bit of money, as well.

In the US, site sponsor Adorama sells new iMac models with free shipping. Other World Computing and JemJem sell used and refurb iMac models at bargain prices with free shipping, as well. Finally, if you need to sell an iMac, A+ BBB-rated Cash for Your Mac will buy your older iMac with an instant quote and prompt payment.

In the UK, site sponsor Hoxton Macs sells used iMac models with a one-year warranty and free next day delivery throughout the UK. Delivery across Europe also is available starting at just £9.99 for two-day delivery to France and Germany.

In Australia, site sponsor Mac City likewise has a variety of used iMac models sold at low prices and available with a free warranty and fast shipping across Australia.